Trakehner Horse: Breed Profile 2024
The Trakehner horse is one of the most flexible and athletic breed of horse I have ever had to deal with.
The first time I can across a Trakehner, it is as if the world stopped and I saw grace in reality. Images of grace are an appropriate comparison for these cars even though performance really is no slouch given.
For whatever reason, Trakehners always seem to excel in dressage, jumping or eventing. What makes them unique is their blend of power and beauty, a rarity among sport horses.
I have always been intrigued by the breeds history and admire what great partners they have become in the equestrian sport. Having once been a war horse to today being one of the best in performance horses, the Trakehner has exhibited a high rank and prestige among horses.
History and Origin
The Trakehner horse breed certainly qualifies, likely about 300 years old originally from East Prussia (modern-day Poland).
Their origins date to the early 18th century, when King Friedrich Wilhelm I started the Trakehnen stud to produce rugged and adaptable horses for use in the military.
As the breed evolved over time, it was influenced by Arabian, Thoroughbred and even Andalusian bloodlines which eventually resulted in that unique blend of stamina, refinement and athleticism.
Most of what I dig about their origin has got to be that Trakehners were not… just bred because they are pretty, or royal; they were also bred with purposes like going into war and staying alive. After the wars, this breed was almost wiped out from the world because plenty of horses were either lost or shuffled.
A handful of remaining Trakehners were saved by dedicated, passionate breeders who were able to keep the remnants of this incredible breed alive and thriving. I love that resilience, and I think it is in them as a people even today.
Breed Characteristics
The most obvious claim to fame of the Trakehner is the way that they are such stellar sport horses and look like athletes next to each other with a Thoroughbred or Arabian! They usually range from 16-17 hands high and are built with a balance of elegance and power.
You can usually tell one when you see it, possessing an upright bearing with a chiseled head and elegant neck that bespeaks royal lineage.
Of all the traits, this is what I am truly amazed by.
- Light but strong structure: They are a healthy well-muscled body, but not stocky. It also means that are quite responsive, which makes them ideal for competitive gamers.
- Movement: Trakehners are well-respected for their movement. You know the floating trot that it takes your breath away.
- Colour: Available in equally impressive bay, black, chestnut and grey.
- Temperament: Yet another reason is their temperament and why I love this breed. Trakehners are known for their intelligence, strong willingness to work and sensitive nature. They bond very closely with their rider, and I can tell you from personal experience that they really thrive on the right consistent yet fair training.
The Trakehner combines grace with power which is the ideal horse for me. They simply have more of that elegant pizzazz, whether in front of the judges or on the open trail.
Roles and Uses
This is one reason they have been so successful as all-rounders and why I consider Trakehners such a versatile horse. Some of the important areas where they perform better include –
- Dressage: Trakehners are excellent dressage horses due to their light, flowing movement and innate athleticism. I have watched them with such exactitude and elegance, that it looked like a dance. The way in which they bend and negotiate with their rider during this ride make them true natural dressage stars.
- Show Jumping: With amazing power and agility, the Trakehners are able to cut through even the most difficult show-jumping course. They are fast, sure-footed and athletic — all of the attributes that one would want in a jumper. I always loved watching them jump those fences with seemingly no effort.
- Eventing: The remarkably versatile Trakehner serves as a mount to riders of three disciplines, dressage, show jumping and cross-country. They are all based on a similar template of brave and bold cross-country ability, but also showing they can pirouette with the best of them in dressage. One of their best qualities would have to be how versatile they are in my opinion.
- Leisure Activity: Trakehners are used a lot in competitions, but they also serve as great companion horses. They have an even gait and are easy going which make them perfect companions for long rides down country roads (a past-time that I so enjoy when have the chance).
Breeding and Conservation
Certainly in terms of Trakehners, I pay a lot of attention to breeding and conservation. As with all breeds it is important to maintain some genetic diversity for the future.
I respect those breeders that work to maintain the athletic ability and temperament of the Trakehner by conscientious selection.
The main registry, the Trakehner Verband, is very strict and makes sure that breeders adhere to high standards.
These are top-lines horses which have proven to be very successfull in breeding. This is something that I highly regard because it means that for generations, Trakehners will continue to be as beautiful and athletic as they are today.
Care and Management
Owning a Trakehner comes with its own requirements, and the proper care & management over time has taught me how critical it is to keep them healthy & happy. Here’s what I focus on:
- Nutrition: Trakehners, being horses, need a balanced diet just like any other. I ensure mine get a good balance of top quality hay, grains, and supplements to keep them well. But do you know what, sometimes they simple do more work than others because, well…being athletes… and so sometimes it is just that tiny bit extra protein or energy their system needs.
- Exercises: These horses require a lot of exercises. Whether it is dressage practice, jumping or just a walk around the pasture, Trakehners need regular exercise to stay in shape and mentally sharp. I try to do at least an hour every day.
- Grooming: They require a regular grooming to maintain their sleek coats ad fine manes. I enjoy grooming them, more so for the time that we spend together doing so. On the upside it makes their coats glow and glow with health, and keeps those hooves in tip top condition.
- Health care: Regular vet checkups are mandatory. I never miss vaccinations, regular deworming, dentalcare or just living on large horses like Trakehners can be more prone to issues of the joints and associated stomach.
Trakehner Horse Price
As for price, the Trakehner can vary widely based upon its age, level of training and bloodlines. A well-bred, untrained Trakehner foal can run you $8,000 to $12,000 before you even kiss it on the nose while a seasoned competition horse at a top level can quickly surpass $30,000.
So for me, the price is clearly indicating that these are very high quality, highly promising horses. These aren’t just horses, they’re athletes.
Trakehner Horses for Sale
However, if you are searching for a Trakehner to buy than there are few alternatives. In my opinion, the smart step is Finding a brede from reputed breed Horses and those special in Trakehners who offer extensive experience on that horse with full details of pedigree and medical history.
- Trakehner Verband: The official registry will frequently offer horses for sale.
- Online Marketplaces: You may be able to find listings for Trakehners on websites such as Equine Now or Horse Clicks.
- Horse Shows and Events: One of the very best ways to get to know Trakehner breeders, network with breeders in your are and see many horses under saddle is by attending a few Trakehner events.
Lastly Trakehners are a good choice for anyone thinking about getting one. They really are one of the grandest, most breed and loyal you can adopt.
Having one has been a lot of fun, and i think they are going to continue to amaze and inspire horse folk for years go come.